For many, the focal point of a visit to Lassen Volcanic National Park in California is a hike to the summit of Lassen Peak. But to really appreciate the volcanic forces that tore the peak open back in May 1915, take a short hike around the Devastated Trail.

Though the towering peak of a dormant volcanic is the main attraction of Lassen Volcanic National Park, there are many other fascinating aspects to this park in northern California. Take Bumpass Hell, for instance.

Geology factors into many units of the National Park System, but there are some parks that rise above all others if you have an interest in the geologic past...and present. What follows is a short list of some of the most geologically fascinating parks in the system, though we're sure you can add others.

North of Yosemite, Sequoia, Kings Canyon, Joshua Tree, and a host of other national park units in California, you might say Lassen Volcanic National Park gets no respect. You might also say it's a jewel in the rough, one that doesn't draw crowds, instead allowing you to enjoy this incredible landscape in relative solitude. A measure of solitude, of course, when compared to the Yosemite Valley, the Giant Forest, even sections of Death Valley come the cooler winter months.